Peter Shalulile: Will Mamelodi Sundowns star join Esperance?
Peter Shalulile on the brink of Esperance move as Sundowns reconfigure striking options.
Namibian forward Peter Shalulile is reportedly edging closer to a move away from Mamelodi Sundowns, with Tunisian powerhouse Esperance tipped as his next destination. Despite having two years left on his contract with the reigning Betway Premiership champions, the veteran striker has found himself falling out of favour in recent months.
With the rise of Luca Ribeiro and Iqraam Rayners in Sundowns’ attacking setup, Shalulile has seen limited action, prompting intense speculation about his future. The 31-year-old has been a prolific scorer in South African football, surpassing the 100-goal mark in the Premier Soccer League (PSL), but his role at the club has come under increasing scrutiny.
While Kaizer Chiefs—desperate to address their goalscoring woes—have been linked with Shalulile, it appears Esperance may win the race for his signature. According to iDiski Times, the Tunisian giants, who previously employed current Sundowns head coach Miguel Cardoso, are pushing hard to finalise the transfer.
If the deal goes through, it could be seen as a missed opportunity for Chiefs, who continue to search for a reliable striker after a string of underwhelming campaigns. Shalulile’s departure would also mark the end of a successful chapter at Chloorkop, where he has etched his name in club history with numerous decisive performances.
Meanwhile, Luca Ribeiro—recently crowned PSL Player of the Season—is attracting interest from clubs in Qatar and Brazil. However, the Brazilian insists he remains committed to Sundowns and is fully focused on the season ahead. The Brazilians begin their new campaign this weekend with an MTN8 showdown against Richards Bay on Sunday.
Does Peter Shalulile’s Move to Esperance Make Sense? A Closer Look
Peter Shalulile’s potential move from Mamelodi Sundowns to Esperance de Tunis is more than just a headline—it’s a career-defining decision that raises valid questions about timing, form, ambition, and strategy for both player and clubs involved. Here’s a breakdown of whether this move makes sense for all parties.
1. For Shalulile: A Smart Exit or Too Late?
At 31, Shalulile is no longer the explosive force he once was, at least by Sundowns’ evolving standards. Injuries and a noticeable dip in form have seen him drop down the pecking order behind younger, in-form strikers like Luca Ribeiro and Iqraam Rayners. Still, his career tally of over 100 PSL goals proves he’s a seasoned finisher.
A move to Esperance offers him a fresh start at a continental giant that consistently plays in the CAF Champions League. The Tunisian league is competitive, albeit slower in pace than the PSL, which could suit his current physical state. Financially, Esperance is also likely to offer a solid package, possibly more lucrative than what Chiefs could put on the table. From a legacy standpoint, adding North African silverware to his resume wouldn’t hurt.
Verdict: Yes, it makes sense—professionally and financially. It’s a graceful pivot at a mature point in his career.
2. For Mamelodi Sundowns: Evolution Over Emotion
Sundowns are clearly in the middle of a transition. Under Miguel Cardoso, the club is integrating fresh talent while keeping their tactical flexibility. Shalulile’s departure would free up wages, reduce squad congestion, and allow younger forwards to grow.
Additionally, letting a club legend leave without much noise shows Sundowns’ commitment to performance over sentiment. It’s a tough but professional call. They’ve likely done the math and determined that his best years are behind him.
Verdict: Makes sense—it’s a calculated step forward for a club focused on long-term dominance.
3. For Kaizer Chiefs: A Costly Missed Opportunity?
If Shalulile does join Esperance, Kaizer Chiefs may be left to regret their hesitation. Chiefs have been crying out for a proven, lethal striker, and Shalulile would’ve fit that bill perfectly. He knows the PSL, is battle-tested, and would’ve brought instant credibility and leadership to a struggling dressing room.
Whether Chiefs genuinely pursued him or were simply monitoring the situation is unclear. But if Esperance finalizes the deal, this could become another “what could’ve been” in Naturena’s long list of transfer misfires.
Verdict: For Chiefs, this doesn’t just make the move sensible—it makes it painful. It was the kind of signing that could have shifted the momentum in their rebuilding process.
4. For Esperance: A Strategic, Low-Risk Gamble
Esperance, a team that always has one eye on the CAF Champions League, would be getting an experienced, continental-level striker who has played at the highest levels in Africa. If Shalulile can stay injury-free and rediscover his sharpness, he could be the missing piece in their attack.
Moreover, his connection to Miguel Cardoso (former Esperance coach, now with Sundowns) may make integration smoother. It’s a low-risk gamble for Esperance—especially if they get him on a reasonable fee or short contract.
Verdict: Makes sense—he brings pedigree, hunger, and big-match temperament.
In football, timing is everything. For Shalulile, this move could offer a dignified exit from the PSL spotlight while keeping him relevant on the African stage. For Sundowns and Esperance, it’s a pragmatic transaction. The only party for whom this may not make sense—at least in hindsight—is Kaizer Chiefs, who may once again be watching a solution slip through their fingers.
